Trends From The 2018 NBGH/Fidelity Employee Health And Wellbeing Survey
In its Ninth Annual Employer-Sponsored Health and Well-Being Survey, the National Business Group on Health (NBGH) and Fidelity Investments identified new key trends for 2018. Where last year saw trends like the expanded definition of wellbeing as well as non-financial incentives, this year employers are continuing to invest in global wellbeing, incentives programs, and are seeking more communication channels.
Some of the findings:
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- 92% of employers consider wellbeing part of their overall business strategy, up from 86% in 2017. And about one-quarter of employers tie wellbeing to at least one key business metric.
- Prevalence of employee incentives in corporate wellness programs increased to 86% from 74% in 2017.
- 83% of employers plan to continue or expand well-being incentives over the next 3-5 years.
- More than half (61%) of employers are using social media, texting, or mobile apps to communicate with employees.
- Of employers with a global well-being strategy, 77% tailor the programming by country.
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Other well-being areas that are continuing to gain traction include:
Health and condition management:
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- 82% of employers say health risk assessments will be in place in 2018, up from 72% last year.
- 84% say a diabetes management program will be in place in 2018, up from 81% in 2017.
- 64% say other disease management programs will be in place in 2018, up from 55% in 2017.
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Physical activity:
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- Well over half (64%) of employers are considering offering subsidies or discounts for fitness wearable devices in the future, up from 53% in 2017.
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Emotional support:
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- 61% of employers will be offering stress management (like coaching or relaxation programs) this year.
- Over half (52%) are offering mindfulness training this year, up from 36% last year.
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This annual survey focuses on NBGH members and clients of Fidelity Investments. This year’s survey respondents included 163 companies across healthcare, manufacturing, technology and telecommunications, and more. Respondents included companies of mid-market to jumbo size, ranging from under 5,000 employees to 20,000+ employees.
This article is not intended to substitute for informed medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or condition. Always check with your doctor before changing your diet, altering your sleep habits, taking supplements, or starting a new fitness routine.
